certain extent better than AHAs due to AHAs only working on the surface of the skin. Retinoic acid peel Retinoic acid is a retinoid. This type of facial peel is also performed in the office of a plastic surgeon, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or a dermatologist in a medical spa setting. This is a deeper peel than the beta hydroxy acid peel and is used to remove scars as well as wrinkles and pigmentation problems. It is usually performed in conjunction with a Jessner; which is performed right before, in order to open up the skin, so the retinoic acid can penetrate on a deeper level. The client leaves with the chemical peel solution on their face. The peeling process takes place on the third day. More dramatic changes to the skin require multiple peels over time. Phenol-croton oil peel A phenol-croton oil is a type of chemical peel. The term "phenol-croton oil peel" has replaced the vague term "phenol peel" in medical literature. It was originally used on a clandestine basis by early Hollywood stars in the 1920s and was incorporated into mainstream practice in the 1960s by Thomas Baker. The active ingredient is croton oil, which causes an intense caustic exfoliating reaction in the skin. History Resurfacing and restoring skin with chemical peel was introduced in the second half of the 19th century by the Austrian dermatologist Ferdinand Ritter von Hebra (1816–1880), founder of the Vienna School of Dermatology. He used exfoliative agents, like phenol, croton oil, nitric acid in various caustic combinations for treating freckles and skin irregularities. Complications The deeper the peel, the more complications that can arise. Professional strength chemical peels are typically administered by certified dermatologists or licensed estheticians. Professional peels and lower-concentration DIY home peel kits can pose health risks, including injury and scarring of the skin. Possible complications include photosensitivity, prolonged erythema, pigmentary changes, milia, skin atrophy, and textural changes. Many individuals report professional chemical peels leave a minor yellowish tinge on their skin due to the retinol elements in the peel. This is expected to last 2–3 hours maximum. Varying mild to moderate redness after the procedure is expected. Anesthesia Light chemical peels like AHA and BHA are usually done in medical offices or Med Spas. There is minimal discomfort so usually no anesthetic is given because the patient feels only a slight stinging when the solution is applied. Medium peels